Dedicated to All Better

Whether treating a toddler in an emergency or supporting a teen through chemotherapy treatments, we are dedicated to the care of each patient. It’s through teamwork at every level of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and with you, the family, that we are able to achieve excellence in pediatric care.

To make kids better today and healthier tomorrow

With a proven track record of providing world-class care to patients in more than 30 pediatric specialties, we are a model for other pediatric hospitals. Infants, teens and young adults belong in a children’s hospital where they can get specialized treatment from caregivers who know the important differences between children and adults.

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Seeking answers to challenging medical conditions

Research is a cornerstone of the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta mission to enhance the lives of children. In conjunction with Emory University School of Medicine, Georgia Tech and Morehouse, Children’s seeks answers to the most challenging childhood medical conditions through teaching and research.

Getting Kids on a Healthy Track—Simplified

We all want happy, healthy kids. But as a busy parent, helping your kids eat well and stay active can be a challenge.

At Strong4Life, created by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, our doctors, nutritionists and wellness experts create fun, easy ways to help your kids eat, move and live healthier. From picky eaters to passionate gamers, we have a slew of simple tips by experts who understand, because we’re parents, too.

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As a not-for-profit organization, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta relies on the generous financial and volunteer support of our community. Your donations directly impact the lives of each family served by Children’s and support many initiatives such as clinical excellence, research, teaching, wellness and charity care.

Find it Fast

Myocarditis

Myocarditis is an irritation (inflammation) of the heart muscle. Often children who develop myocarditis feel better in a few weeks and may show little or no symptoms. Usually recovery is complete with no long-term complications.

What are the Symptoms of Myocarditis in Children?

Symptoms are similar to the flu—but often last longer than seven days, they may include:

Fever

Weakness

Muscle pain

Headache

Chest pain

Dizziness

What Causes Myocarditis in Children?

It is not known what causes myocarditis. However, certain medicines, infections and viruses may be causes. Myocarditis is not inherited from generation to generation.

Who Gets Myocarditis?

Anyone can get myocarditis and some people may not even know they have it—as it may go away by itself. However, sometimes myocarditis can be very serious and even life-threatening.

How Can Myocarditis be Treated?

Treatment should be begun as soon as possible—as it often helps the outcome. If the child does not have any signs or symptoms, he may be given an anti-inflammatory or other medication and told to rest and limit salt in his diet. If the child has symptoms or shows signs of heart failure, he should be taken to the hospital immediately. Possible surgical treatments include a pacemaker or ventricular assist device.

What is the Follow-up Care for Myocarditis?

If pediatric heart surgery is done, children need to have long-term follow up with a pediatric cardiologist—and eventually make the transition to an adult cardiologist. Many children with congenital heart defects are at risk for infective endocarditis, inflammation of the heart, and require antibiotic coverage before dental work or invasive procedures.

If surgery is not done, follow-up visits may still be needed as well as healthy lifestyle changes or a daily medication.